Vinyl siding is a popular choice for homeowners seeking an affordable, low-maintenance alternative to natural brick, cedar, stone, or stucco exterior products. However, the cost of vinyl siding can vary significantly depending on factors such as the quality of the product, installation cost, and maintenance requirements.
As a house siding specialist at RST Roofing and Renovation, I’m here to help you make cost-effective decisions. In this comprehensive guide, I will discuss how to minimize the long-term cost of your vinyl siding by focusing on product selection, installation tips, and maintenance strategies.
👉 Factors Affecting Vinyl Siding Costs
According to Modernize, installing vinyl siding costs between $4.50 and $8.20 per square foot, and the national average cost of vinyl siding is $18,813. Your final price tag will be influenced by several factors, including the quality of the material, the size of your home, and the complexity of the installation. To make an informed decision when choosing vinyl siding for your home, it’s essential to understand these factors and how they can impact the overall cost.
1. Material Quality
Vinyl siding is available in various forms, ranging from budget-friendly options to premium, high-end products. The quality of the siding will directly affect its durability, appearance, and long-term performance. Higher-quality siding is generally thicker, has better UV resistance, and is more protectant against weathering and damage from impacts. While premium siding may have a higher initial cost, it can provide better long-term value by requiring less maintenance and having a longer lifespan.
Here are some comparisons that most homeowners should know about:
# The Cost of Cedar Shakes vs. Vinyl Siding
Natural cedar shake wood siding typically costs more than vinyl siding, even if you go for a vinyl shake look. According to Factory Direct Siding, natural cedar shake siding costs between $7 to $14 per square foot, much higher than vinyl shake designs, which range from $2 to $6.
Speaking of faux wood siding, engineered wood is another popular material. But when it comes to the cost of engineered wood siding vs. vinyl, vinyl wood siding is still more affordable.
# The Cost of Metal Siding vs. Vinyl
Aluminum is a sturdy and beautiful choice for siding and roofing. The cost to install aluminum siding is between $6 and $11 per square foot, and it is still relatively cost-effective because aluminum production is more affordable than 80% of other construction materials.
# The Cost of Hardie® Plank Siding vs. Vinyl
Hardie® Plank or Hardie® Board siding costs between $5 and $9 per square foot after installation, whereas vinyl siding starts at $4 and can go as high as $11 for designer, insulated, or thicker panels with more features.
2. The Size and Complexity of Your Home
The size of your home and the complexity of its design will also impact the cost of vinyl siding. Larger homes will require more siding material, which can increase the overall cost. Additionally, complex designs with many corners, angles, and architectural features can increase the installation difficulty and time, raising the labor cost.
3. Installation Costs
The installation costs can vary depending on the contractor you choose, the complexity of the project, and your location. Keep in mind that the lowest bid may not always be the best option, as inexperienced contractors or unqualified handymen can lead to costly mistakes or subpar installations.
👉 Choosing the Right Vinyl Siding Product
Selecting the right type of vinyl siding is critical to ensuring its long-term performance and minimizing overall costs. Consider the following factors when making your decision:
1. Thickness
Thicker vinyl siding is generally more durable and resistant to damage from weather and impacts. Opting for a bulkier material can help ensure your siding lasts longer, reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements.
2. UV Resistance
UV resistance is a critical factor in determining the long-term performance of vinyl siding. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the siding to fade, crack, or become brittle over time. Look for products with built-in UV inhibitors or coatings to help prevent these issues and maintain the siding’s appearance.
3. Insulation
Insulated vinyl siding can provide additional energy efficiency benefits by reducing heat transfer through your home’s exterior walls. This can help lower your heating and cooling costs, providing long-term savings that can offset the higher initial cost of insulated vinyl siding, which ranges from $8 to $12 per square foot depending on the quality of materials and contractor.
4. Warranty
A comprehensive warranty can provide peace of mind and protect your investment in vinyl siding. Look for products with a strong warranty, including coverage for fading, cracking, and other common issues. Be sure to read the warranty carefully and understand any limitations or exclusions.
Before you get started, let’s look at some important installation requirements.
👉 Installation Tips for Minimizing Vinyl Siding Costs
Proper installation is crucial to ensuring your vinyl siding performs well and lasts for years to come. Keep these tips in mind when working with your contractor to minimize installation costs:
# Choose an Experienced Contractor
Selecting a reputable contractor with experience installing vinyl siding can help ensure a successful project and reduce the risk of costly mistakes or issues. Ask for recommendations from friends or neighbors, and look for online reviews and testimonials to find a contractor with a proven track record.
# Think About Your Home’s Resale Value
According to the Vinyl Siding Institute, homeowners typically recoup more than 80% of the cost of new vinyl siding in increased home value. This can be an important consideration when evaluating the long-term costs and benefits of this exterior product. Choosing a stylish design, like board, batten, or one that resembles wood shakes, can ensure your home looks its best and maximizes its potential resale value.
# Choose an Eco-Friendly Manufacturer
Vinyl siding is a petroleum-based product, which raises concerns about its environmental impact. So now, many manufacturers offer vinyl siding products made from recycled materials, providing a more eco-friendly option for homeowners to avoid certain community conflicts.
Keeping costs in check doesn’t end with choosing and installing good-quality siding. You need to maintain the siding properly. Here are some tips you can follow:
👉 Maintenance Tips to Extend the Life of Your Vinyl Siding
Regular cleaning, trimming vines, and preventing pest infestations are major maintenance steps to follow. These actions will help minimize the long-term costs of replacing vinyl siding and extend its lifespan.
# Regular Cleaning
Regularly cleaning your vinyl siding can help prevent the buildup of dirt, grime, and mildew, which can cause damage over time. Use a gentle cleaning solution and a soft-bristle brush to clean the siding, taking care not to use abrasive cleaners or scrubbers that can cause scratches or other forms of damage.
# Trim Vegetation
Keep tree branches, vines, bushes, and other vegetation trimmed back from your siding to prevent pest infestation, bird nests, and space for small animals to hide and affect the foundation. Trimming overhanging branches is often neglected, but it’s necessary to prevent them from scraping against the roof and siding, damaging shingles, peeling siding paint, and causing scratches.
# Address Pest Issues
You may notice pest issues if you live in a humid area or are in a more natural setting. Insects and rodents can cause damage to your siding by chewing through it or burrowing behind it. Get a yearly professional inspection of your home exterior for signs of pest activity and follow the advice of your siding contractor to address such problems.
All in all, following these steps to can help minimize your vinyl siding costs:
- Select sturdy, insulated panels from a reputable manufacturer.
- Ensure proper installation by a reliable, local siding contractor.
- Consider eco-friendly benefits and your home’s resale value.
- Maintain your vinyl siding through regular cleaning, removing pests, and trimming vegetation.
I hope these guidelines prove helpful in minimizing your project’s overall cost. If you want a reliable estimate on the cost of vinyl siding installation in Atlanta, Georgia, contact our team at RST Roofing and Renovations.
👉 Free Consultations and Estimates on Vinyl Siding
At RST Roofing and Renovations, we understand that choosing the right vinyl siding for your home is a significant decision. Our team genuinely cares about our customers’ satisfaction and works carefully to make the process as easy and stress-free as possible. Being a part of the Atlanta community, we extend our help to all homeowners by offering free consultations and estimates on your project. If you’re looking for a detailed estimate of your vinyl siding installation in Atlanta, call us at (404)-548-8901 to schedule your free appointment.
